[Hemoperfusion by Means of Encapsuled Charcoal for the Treatment of Exogenous and Endogenous Intoxications]

The method developed by Chang for using in collodion and albumin encapsuled charcoal as artificial cells for hemoperfusion has been studied in vitro. The capacity for the absorption of more or less dialysable exogenous substances (barbiturate, Diazepam, Parathion) and an endogenous toxic metabolite (p-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid) has been examined. With the absorption unit one can eliminate 80 to 90 per cent of the initial concentration of barbiturate, Diazepam and p-hydroxyphenyl acetic acid in about 90 min, of Parathion about 50 per cent in the same time, whereas bromide and ammonia are not absorbed. Attempts to avoid regional heparinisation by the incorporation of heparin into the capsule of charcoal granules were not successful. Assuming correct preparation of the hemoperfusion system, observance of steril precoutions and regional heparinisation, the use of the "detoxication shunt" is a promising means in the treatment of severe exogenous and endogenous intoxications which are not accessible by conventional therapeutic means.